Matt Philip has been recognised by his peers for his outstanding contribution to the Melbourne Rebels 2020 campaign, today being named as recipient of the 2020 Players' Player award.
Philip’s recognition caps a whirlwind forty-eight hours, in which the popular lock played part in Melbourne’s maiden Qualifying Finals match, and yesterday, was named in Dave Rennie’s 44-man Wallabies squad for the upcoming Test season.
Philip says being awarded this season’s Players' Player was a huge honour and represented one of his most memorable achievements in his playing career to date.
“It’s one of the biggest achievements I’ve ever had,” said Philip.
“To be recognised by your teammates for all the hard work you put in, it’s a pretty good feeling, so I’m pretty grateful for that.”
Despite an unprecedented twelve consecutive weeks on the road, Philip continued to elevate his game, thriving in the face of adversity.
The twenty-six-year-old put his stellar on-field performances down to making a conscious effort to embrace the unknown with his teammates on tour, while also steadily beginning to grow into his imposing 6 foot 6, 120-kg frame.
“Just spending time with some of my best mates every day - I’ve really enjoyed it.”
“It’s been challenging at times, but it’s been a really big personal growth period for myself and I also really enjoyed staying at Terrigal as well.
“I think I’m a bit of a late bloomer and just starting to grow into my body a bit more.
“I feel really confident with my fitness and physicality and stuff like that, so hopefully I can keep getting better as the years go on.”
